How to Clean Up Nuclear Waste

Nuclear waste is radioactive material that should not be cleaned by just anyone. Nuclear waste originates in nuclear power plants, many of which are going out of commission. There are low-level radioactive wastes and high-level wastes. A low-level waste would be, for example, protective clothing contaminated with radioactive waste. Uranium and plutonium are examples of materials that generate high level radioactive waste. Disposal and clean up of such waste is regulated by the federal government at disposal and storage facilities. If you think you have found nuclear waste, report it immediately.

Instructions

1. Locate the nuclear waste without touching it. Keep as far away from the source as possible. Do not let anyone near the suspected waste.

2. Call the police to block off the area. Do not try to regulate traffic yourself. Use the proper authorities to keep people away from the contaminated area.

3. Call the United States Nuclear Regulatory Commission at 1-800-233-3497. The number for 24-hour emergencies is 1-301-816-5100. This commission regulates nuclear waste disposal and will be able to dispatch a responding team to clean up the waste.

4. Describe what you have found and follow the instructions given by the responding operator. Instructions will most likely include staying far away from the area and reporting to a hospital or emergency room for examination for effects of radiation.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are unsure if what you found is nuclear waste or not, call the proper authorities, including the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission.

• Never try to clean up nuclear waste on your own. Call an emergency line immediately. If you have come in contact with the waste, call your local emergency authorities immediately. Do not try to move the waste. Allow the proper authorities to handle the waste.

References

• Low-level Waste Disposal
• Nuclear Waste Disposal
• High-level Waste Disposal